Research: Knowing When Enough is Enough

In a post on the Stage 32 blog, S.K. Valenzuela offers advice for avoiding the two most common pitfalls of research: info-dumping and procrastination. Valenzuela says creating a research and story plan before you start to research is key. She offers five tips for effective story research:

1. Make a list. Writing a list of items to research can help stop you from dropping into a Wiki-hole and chasing information you’ll never use. Just like a grocery list can keep you from walking down every aisle in the store, a research list can help you stay on task.
2. Follow the leader. Leverage what other people have already researched, Valenzuela suggests. Follow hyperlinks in articles, read bibliographies, contact interview subjects. While you might find yourself following a long thread of research, in this case, it’s strategic because you’re following what people have written on a single topic.
3. Look for unusual details. By sticking to a set of research topics, you free yourself to look for interesting details within those areas, the details that help you create a fully fleshed out world.
4. Research as you write. Initially, you might want to research just those areas you need to start planning and writing your book. It’s ok to leave some topics for later, when you reach the portion of your manuscript where they’re necessary. This is also efficient, as you can plan a research day or weekend to tackle a long list of items. You can also avoid researching items you think you need at the beginning, only to drop them as your story evolves.
5. Leave room for serendipity. Even with a plan, you’ll find topics you didn’t consider at first. You’ll find things you didn’t know you needed at the time. Be open to discovery. If you find a tidbit that warrants fuller exploration, and could add to your story, go for it.

Valenzuela also says that once you’re in the right mindset, your brain will start to cooperate. “Your Reticular Activating System — your brain’s natural filtering system — goes on alert for what it thinks you want and need,” she explains. “You don’t have to do anything particularly special to get it working for you, either. Just take the time on the initial planning and research to set your trajectory (and show your brain what you’re looking for), and let your subconscious give you a hand.”